Embark on a unique adventure this summer by combining the convenience of the train with the freedom of biking. Bring your bike onboard the New Mexico Rail Runner Express and experience the city and scenic bike paths like never before!
To prove just how easy – and fun – a bike and train journey can be, Rio Metro employee Kristopher Sterling gave it a try. On a beautiful spring day in May, he boarded Rail Runner train #510 at the Downtown Albuquerque Station to begin his adventure.
A Helpful Crew
When boarding the train with your bike, the train staff will show you what to do. “The crew knows which door to direct you to when you’re on the platform,” said Sterling. “It’s super easy to get on and off.”
After boarding the Rail Runner, Sterling placed his ride in the designated bicycle storage area, which can hold up to 8 standard size bikes. He then took a seat on the lower level of the train car.
“Sitting anywhere downstairs is a great spot to keep an eye on your bike. Plus, there’s somewhat a community of bike people that take the train – you can easily spot them because they’re all sitting near their bikes,” he said.
After a short 15-minute ride, Sterling hopped off the train at the Los Ranchos/Journal Center Station.
Easy Train/Bike Connection
The Los Ranchos / Journal Center Station is popular among cyclists. The path that runs along Paseo del Norte is conveniently accessible from the parking lot on the east side of the station and connects you to Albuquerque’s vast network of multi-use trails.
“Getting off the train and onto the path was really simple,” said Sterling. “There is no guesswork to it.”
After walking his bike from the Los Ranchos / Journal Center Station to the trail entrance, Sterling pedaled west. A short two miles later, he easily found his connection to the Paseo del Bosque Recreational Trail for the next leg of his journey.
Taking in the Beauty of the Bosque
Sterling continued his ride south along the Paseo del Bosque trail, making his first stop at the Rio Grande Nature Center State Park. The nature center is a 6.6-mile ride from the Los Ranchos/Journal Center Station and took about half-an-hour.
“I really thought it would be a longer journey, but the trail system is really good,” said Sterling. “And it’s a beautiful ride!”
The Rio Grande Nature Center State Park is the perfect stopping point for those who want to explore the natural beauty and tranquility of Albuquerque’s Bosque. Cyclists can stop in the Visitor’s Center for a restroom break, explore the exhibits, and take a rest at the indoor wildlife viewing area, where you can watch turtles, birds, and sometimes even spot other local creatures.
After a short stop at the nature center, Sterling hopped back on his bike and continued his ride south for 18 minutes (3.5 miles) to Tingley Beach. This was another good stopping point for a sip of water and exploration. In the spring and summer, the wildflower garden at Tingley Beach is in full bloom. It also offers fishing, model boating opportunities, wildlife watching, and walking paths.
From Tingley Beach, the Downtown Albuquerque Rail Runner Station – the point of origin for Sterling’s ride – is a 14-minute (2.2 mile) ride east along shared-use streets with low speed limits (25 mph or less).
Takeaways
Sterling summed up his thoughts on this experience by exclaiming, “It was so easy! Everyone should try it!”
Both the train ride and the bike excursion proved to be not only enjoyable but also convenient, showcasing the seamless connection between public transportation and outdoor activities in Albuquerque.
“Because the trail easily connects with the train, it allows a wide area of access to so many things in Albuquerque,” he said. “Taking your bike is much quicker and easier than walking. I was very surprised by how close things were, and the trail system is clearly marked.”
Next time you plan to explore the city, consider taking your bike on the train for a memorable and leisurely journey through Albuquerque's stunning landscapes.
Ideas for Other Train/Bike Rides
Here are just a few other ideas of how you can utilize the Rail Runner to connect to other trails in Albuquerque and central New Mexico:
Ride to Balloon Fiesta Park – Exit the train at the Los Ranchos / Journal Center Station. Take the multi-use path along Paseo del Norte east to the North Diversion Channel Trail. Head north on the North Diversion Channel Trail and continue for 2.8 miles.
Santa Fe Rail Trail – Exit the train at the Santa Fe Depot Station. The Santa Fe Rail Trail runs from the Santa Fe Railyard to outside of the community of Lamy, ending at Highway 285. This is a 16.6-mile ride in each direction.
Explore the Bosque from the South Valley – Exit the train at the Bernalillo County Rail Runner Station in Albuquerque’s South Valley. Take the multi-use trail along Rio Bravo west to the Paseo del Bosque trail. Head north or south on the Paseo del Bosque trail. Dip down into the bosque on one of the dirt paths to ride among the trees and close to the river.
Check out the City of Albuquerque’s multi-use trail map and bicycling website for more ideas!
By Riann Martinez, Marketing Specialist, Rio Metro Regional Transit District
